Melissa Blasczak never expected a flyer at work to be the turning point in her life. It was a simple invitation to the 2024 Women’s Health Expo, hosted by Decatur County Memorial Hospital (DCMH), offering free health screenings and wellness information. At the time, Melissa was silently battling overwhelming fatigue and emotional exhaustion, unsure if it was from stress, grief, or something deeper. She had recently lost her husband, after 19 years of caring for him through countless medical challenges, always putting his needs before her own.
“I wasn’t really taking care of myself,” Melissa said. “I didn’t even know where to start.”
With no insurance and no primary care provider, the idea of finding answers felt out of reach — until the Expo. Because of the support from the Hospital Foundation of Decatur County and its generous donors, those screenings were offered at no cost. It was an act of kindness Melissa never forgot.
“That day changed everything,” she said. “Without those screenings, I might still be wondering what was wrong. Instead, I got answers—and a path forward.”
Her results showed elevated A1c and cholesterol levels. A follow-up with DCMH provider Dr. Isaiah Steffen confirmed a diagnosis of type II diabetes and high cholesterol. Though it was difficult news to hear, Melissa felt empowered. With support from her care team, she began making small, manageable changes. She started drinking more water, reduced sugar and carbs, and kept herself accountable with guidance from Dr. Steffen.
Pictured: Isaiah Steffen, MD (Melissa’s Primary Care Provider), Mandy Lohrum (Hospital Foundation Director), and Melissa Blasczak
In just five months, Melissa’s A1c dropped from 8.5 to 5.7. She lost 30 pounds, gained energy, and found her spark again.
“I feel better than I have in years,” she shared. “Even my coworkers noticed. They started asking me what I was doing differently—and I told them, it all started with that free screening.”
Melissa’s journey is one of many made possible by the Hospital Foundation of Decatur County and the individuals and organizations who give generously to ensure screenings and health events like the Women’s Health Expo continue. Their support helps break down financial barriers and gives people like Melissa access to life-changing care.
“When donors give to the Hospital Foundation of Decatur County, they’re helping real people, right here in our community,” said Mandy Lohrum, Director of the Hospital Foundation. “Stories like Melissa’s are why we do this work — because one act of generosity can spark a lifetime of better health.”
If you would like to help more people in our community get the care they need, please contact the Hospital Foundation of Decatur County at foundation@dcmh.net or 812-663-1220